LaDarius Breon Bell, a 26-year-old African American man from Longview, Texas, tragically died on December 15, 2019, from a gunshot wound to the head. Bell was found shot and left on the side of a road near Overton, Texas, and later succumbed to his injuries at a Tyler hospital. The circumstances surrounding his death were initially unclear, but investigations revealed that Bell may have been involved in a robbery that took place in Longview.
On the day of Bell's death, Longview police
responded to a robbery call in the 1400 block of East Fairmont Street. The victim of the robbery reported that three suspects had entered his home and stolen items before fleeing the scene. As the suspects were leaving, the victim fired several rounds at their car, which may have inadvertently struck Bell. Bell was found in critical condition and later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Following the incident, Smith County Sheriff's Office and Longview Police Department launched an investigation. Two suspects were identified and taken into custody: a male suspect was arrested after being pulled over in Forney, Texas, and a female suspect was apprehended at a Dallas hotel. The investigation revealed that Bell was in the car used during the robbery, and it is believed that he was unintentionally shot by the robbery victim.
In March 2020, Hannah Leigh McCartney, a 31-year-old woman from Lindale, Texas, was arrested and later sentenced to 30 years in prison for her involvement in Bell's death. McCartney pleaded guilty to murder in connection with the robbery and shooting. Another suspect, Jared Anthony Freelen, was also arrested and charged in relation to the incident.
The case remains under investigation by the Longview Police Department, and efforts continue to bring all responsible parties to justice. Bell's death has left a lasting impact on his family and community, who remember him as a beloved son, father, and friend.
